How to take off wallpaper border
To take off wallpaper border, you’ll need to determine if it’s strippable, peelable, or vinyl. Gather tools like a putty knife, scoring tool, primer, and a steamer or wallpaper remover solution. Score vinyl borders, then apply remover or steam to loosen adhesive before peeling.
Removing a wallpaper border is a common DIY task when redecorating. The process varies depending on the type of border and adhesive used, but most can be tackled with patience and the right tools. Before you start, identify the type of border you’re dealing with. Is it vinyl, washable, or paper? Vinyl and washable borders are often designed to be peeled off in strips, while standard paper borders may require a solution to soften the adhesive.
Gather your supplies. You’ll need a putty knife or a wide scraper, a scoring tool (if the border is vinyl or painted over), a spray bottle with warm water and dish soap or a commercial wallpaper remover solution, a sponge or cloth, and a trash bag. If the border is particularly stubborn, a wallpaper steamer can be a lifesaver. Don’t forget drop cloths to protect your floors and baseboards.
Prepare your workspace
Cover your floors and furniture with drop cloths. Remove any switch plates or outlet covers from the wall. Turn off the power to the room at the breaker box before you start working near electrical outlets. This is a crucial safety step. Clean the border with a damp cloth to remove any dust or grime, which will help your chosen removal solution penetrate better.
Score vinyl or painted borders
If your wallpaper border is vinyl, has a glossy finish, or has been painted over, you’ll need to score it. Use a wallpaper scoring tool, which has small spikes that perforate the surface. Gently run the tool over the entire border. This creates tiny holes that allow the water or remover solution to penetrate the border and reach the adhesive underneath. Don’t press too hard, or you risk damaging the drywall. For painted borders, scoring is essential for the solution to work effectively.
Apply wallpaper remover solution or steam
For standard paper borders, mix a solution of warm water and a few drops of dish soap in a spray bottle. For vinyl or more stubborn borders, use a commercial wallpaper remover solution according to the product’s instructions. Generously spray the solution onto the border, ensuring it’s thoroughly saturated. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or as directed, to allow the solution to soften the adhesive.
If you’re using a wallpaper steamer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Hold the steamer plate against the border for about 30 seconds, allowing the steam to penetrate. Work in small sections, as the steam can cool quickly. Be cautious not to hold the steamer in one spot for too long, as excessive moisture can damage drywall.
Peel off the wallpaper border
Once the adhesive has softened, use your putty knife or scraper to gently lift an edge of the border. Work slowly and carefully, pulling the border away from the wall at a shallow angle. If the border comes off in small pieces, reapply the solution or steam to the remaining areas and let it work longer. Avoid using excessive force, which can tear the drywall paper. If you encounter significant resistance, it likely means the adhesive isn’t fully softened, and you’ll need to reapply the solution or steam.
Clean the wall surface
After all the border material is removed, there will likely be some adhesive residue left on the wall. Mix a fresh batch of warm water and dish soap or use a dedicated adhesive remover. Use a sponge or cloth to scrub away the remaining glue. Rinse the wall with clean water and a sponge to remove any soap residue. Allow the walls to dry completely. This step is crucial for ensuring your new paint or wallpaper adheres properly.
Repair and prepare for priming
Inspect the walls for any nicks, gouges, or small tears in the drywall paper that may have occurred during removal. Fill these imperfections with spackling paste or joint compound. Once the spackle is dry, sand it smooth with fine-grit sandpaper. Wipe away any dust with a damp cloth. Apply a coat of primer to the entire wall. This seals the drywall, covers any remaining adhesive marks, and ensures a uniform surface for your new finish. If you removed a dark-colored border, a good primer is especially important to block any residual color from showing through.
Common Mistakes When Removing Wallpaper Border
| Step or Tool | Typical Mistake |
|---|---|
| Scoring Tool | Not scoring vinyl or painted borders, or scoring too deeply and damaging drywall. |
| Wallpaper Remover Solution/Steamer | Not letting the solution or steam sit long enough for the adhesive to soften, or using too much water which can damage drywall. |
| Putty Knife/Scraper | Using too much force, which can tear the drywall paper, or using a dull knife that makes removal difficult. |
| Cleaning Residue | Not thoroughly removing all adhesive residue, which can cause problems with new paint or wallpaper adhesion. |
FAQ
Can I just paint over a wallpaper border?
While you might be tempted to paint over a wallpaper border, it’s generally not recommended. The border’s texture, seams, and potential for peeling can show through the paint, resulting in an unprofessional finish. Proper removal and wall preparation are essential for a smooth, lasting paint job.
How do I remove an old, dried-out wallpaper border?
Old, dried-out borders are often the most challenging. Start by scoring the border thoroughly. Apply a strong commercial wallpaper remover solution or use a steamer. You may need to reapply the solution multiple times and work in small sections. Patience is key; don’t try to force it off, as this will damage the wall.
What is the best way to remove border adhesive?
The best way to remove adhesive is with a solution of warm water and dish soap, or a specialized adhesive remover. Apply the solution generously, let it soak in to soften the glue, and then gently scrape it away with a plastic scraper or putty knife. Rinse thoroughly with clean water afterward to remove any residue.
How long does it take to remove a wallpaper border?
The time it takes to remove a wallpaper border can vary greatly depending on the type of border, the adhesive used, and the tools you have. A simple, peelable border might take an hour or two. A stubborn, vinyl, or painted-over border could take several hours, or even require multiple sessions.